Get ready to fall in love with the creamy, melty goodness of shredded mozzarella cheese! Whether you’re a pizza lover, a pasta aficionado, or just looking for a quick and easy snack, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this beloved cheese.
From classic margherita pizzas to creamy stuffed garlic breads, baked mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce, and more, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal, we’ve got 20 ways to use shredded mozzarella cheese that will satisfy your cravings.
So go ahead, grab some shredded mozzarella cheese, and get ready to elevate your meals with these simple yet impressive recipes!
Classic Margherita Pizza with Shredded Mozzzarella
A simple yet iconic Italian dish that requires only a few ingredients, this classic margherita pizza is a staple for any occasion. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s no wonder why this recipe has remained a favorite for generations.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-protein flour
– 0.25 cups (60ml) water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a bowl.
3. Gradually add water while kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm).
5. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Spread shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border at the edges.
7. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves on top.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and season to taste.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Mozzarella Stuffed Garlic Bread
Elevate your garlic bread game with this creamy mozzarella twist! This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Italian bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a bowl, mix together garlic, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and oregano until well combined.
4. Spread the mixture evenly onto each bread half.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Baked Mozzarella Cheese Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines crispy baked mozzarella cheese sticks with a rich and tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for parties or movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 12-16 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 jar marinara sauce (about 1 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Dip each mozzarella cheese stick in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated cheese sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese sticks and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
7. While cheese sticks are baking, warm marinara sauce according to package instructions.
8. Serve baked cheese sticks with warmed marinara sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, flavorful dish that combines the richness of mozzarella with the earthiness of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket.
3. Stuff each breast with spinach, mozzarella slices, and garlic.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Calzone
Transform your kitchen into a Italian pizzeria with this simple recipe that yields a delicious and gooey mozzarella cheese calzone. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces homemade mozzarella cheese (see separate recipe)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Place mozzarella cheese in the center of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it.
7. Fold the dough over the cheese to form a triangle or square shape.
8. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Three-Cheese Mozzarella Lasagna
This classic Italian dish gets a creamy twist with the addition of three rich cheeses and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, this lasagna is sure to satisfy any pasta lover.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Spread marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat layers: noodles, cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with basil.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
Experience the flavors of Italy with this classic Caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This recipe is a perfect representation of the beauty of simplicity.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Place the mozzarella slices on top of the tomatoes.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic vinegar.
4. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves evenly over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and at room temperature.
Mozzarella and Tomato Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This classic comfort food gets a delicious twist with the addition of melted mozzarella cheese, fresh tomato slices, and crispy bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1 large tomato, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a tomato slice, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and another slice of bread (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Cheesy Mozzarella Garlic Knots
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these creamy, cheesy, and savory garlic knots! This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Mix together the minced garlic, softened butter, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Cut the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a knot.
5. Place the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the garlic-mozzarella mixture evenly over the knots.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs
Easy Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs: A Twist on Classic Italian Comfort Food
These mouthwatering meatballs are packed with gooey mozzarella cheese, adding a creamy surprise to every bite. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you can enjoy this delightful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Place a small spoonful of mozzarella cheese in the center of each meatball.
5. Close the meatballs over the cheese and gently press edges to seal.
6. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Vegetable and Mozzarella Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe brings together the earthy taste of portobello mushrooms and the creamy delight of mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a savory vegetable filling. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mixed vegetables, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the vegetable mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Top each mushroom with sliced mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Mozzarella Arancini Balls
Crispy Mozzarella Arancini Balls Recipe
These crispy and cheesy arancini balls are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Made with a mix of cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, and tomato sauce, these bite-sized treats will surely become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tomato sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
2. Add the lightly beaten egg and mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Shape mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry arancini balls for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil and serve with tomato sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Loaded Mozzarella Nachos with Jalapeños
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, the spiciness of jalapeños, and the crunch of tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) bag of tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the chips.
4. Top with cilantro, red onion, and jalapeños.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the nachos.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Mozzarella Flatbread Pizza
A flavorful twist on traditional pizza, this recipe combines the creaminess of pesto with the richness of mozzarella cheese and crispy flatbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread (or naan)
– 2 tablespoons of pesto
– 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, prosciutto, or arugula
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread.
3. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the pesto.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.
5. If using, add optional toppings.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Mozzarella and Spinach Quesadillas
A twist on traditional quesadillas, these cheesy bites combine the creaminess of mozzarella with the nutritional boost of spinach. Perfect for a quick snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach leaves and mozzarella cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the spinach-mozzarella mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal. This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place the zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Bread Rolls
Get ready to elevate your bread game with these addictive homemade mozzarella cheese bread rolls! Soft, fluffy dough infused with melted mozzarella cheese creates the perfect snack or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil) or grated Parmesan for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
3. Add warm water, melted butter, and mozzarella cheese. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between rolls.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Mozzarella Pasta Bake
This classic Italian-inspired pasta bake combines the simplicity of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this recipe is quick to prepare and cooks to perfection in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to caramelize (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and chopped basil.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Mozzarella and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory goodness of sausage with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cooked sausage, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Top each pepper with mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Mozzarella Pull-Apart Bread
This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter and melted mozzarella cheese with the convenience of a pull-apart bread. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish, this mouthwatering treat is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to desired thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic and butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top of the garlic butter.
6. Roll the pastry into a log shape and slice into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy, melty goodness of shredded mozzarella cheese! This article brings you 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this iconic ingredient. From classic margherita pizza and garlic bread to stuffed chicken breasts, lasagna, and even nachos, these dishes are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something simple and comforting or a bit more adventurous, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and let the melted mozzarella magic begin!
